Serena Williams, a prominent figure in sports with a record of 23 Grand Slam titles, has addressed her use of weight loss medication in an effort to reduce the stigma surrounding such treatments. In a recent interview on the Today Show, Williams shared her struggles with weight management post-pregnancy, revealing that despite engaging in extensive training, she faced difficulties in losing weight. She likened her extra weight to “an opponent,” noting that after significant effort, she turned to medication for assistance.
Williams disclosed that several friends were using GLP-1 medication, which aids in weight loss, prompting her to explore this option as well. She reported losing 31 pounds (14 kilograms) over eight months while emphasizing that this method required significant effort and was not a shortcut. She did not specify the brand of medication being used. Williams’ candid remarks come at a time when she has also become a spokesperson for Ro, a company that markets GLP-1 products, raising questions about the timing and motivations behind her statements.
Experts have commented on the potential implications of her openness. Caleb Luna, an assistant professor of feminist studies, labeled Williams’ transparency as a significant step in normalizing discussions about weight loss medication. However, Luna expressed concerns that reliance on such treatments might overshadow the achievements of hard work in athletes, suggesting a societal shift in focus towards appearance.
Additionally, Dr. Claire Madigan, a research associate in behavioral medicine, noted the challenges elite athletes face in transitioning to a different lifestyle after their competitive careers. While acknowledging Williams’ comments on the importance of diet and exercise, she cautioned that the expensive nature of these drugs may lead to unrealistic expectations among the general public. Dr. Madigan also highlighted potential side effects associated with GLP-1 medications, noting that Williams reported no adverse effects.
Despite the discussions surrounding her use of medication, Williams remains active, training for a half marathon and reporting improvements in her health and fitness.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8de89lg21jo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss